OSTEOPATHY AND PHYSIOTHERAPY

Osteopathy is a highly regulated profession in the UK, governed by the General Osteopathic Council(GOsC). It is illegal for anyone to call themselves an Osteopath unless they are registered with the General Osteopathic Council. To qualify as an osteopath, an individual must study for four or five years of a medical based undergraduate degree which includes over 1000 hours of clinical training prior to qualification.

The General Osteopathic Council defines osteopathy as “a system of diagnosis and treatment with the main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body”. Osteopathy is a system of healthcare whereby it is believed that poor alignment of the body’s musculoskeletal structures are not only responsible for possible pain in the joints and muscles of our bodies, but may also be influential in the affliction of certain health related problems. Osteopaths treat the muscular and skeletal structures of the body with the view to rebalancing alignment of the body so as to optimize the body’s innate healing mechanisms to encourage restoration of health and function.

The definition from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy descibes the role of the Physiotherapist as that of one in which they help people affected by injury, illness or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice. They maintain health for people of all ages, helping patients to manage pain and prevent disease. The profession helps to encourage development and facilitate recovery, enabling people to stay in work while helping them to remain independent for as long as possible.

Physiotherapy is a science-based profession and takes a ‘whole person’ approach to health and wellbeing, which includes the patient’s general lifestyle. At the core is the patient’s involvement in their own care, through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their treatment. You can benefit from physiotherapy at any time in your life. Physiotherapy helps with back pain or sudden injury, managing long-term medical condition such as asthma, and in preparing for childbirth or a sporting event.

Appointments are £68 for both first and subsequent consultations. Consultations are approximately 40- 45 minutes but may be shorter or longer depending on the time required for assessment and treatment.

Peter graduated from the London School of Osteopathy and works in several practices across London including the Moorgate and Victoria branches of the Light Centre and his own clinic in Earl’s Court.

His approach to treatment is to provide Total Healthcare and offer a more extensive and holistic approach for his clients and patients. To this end, Peter has completed training in Western Medical acupuncture, myofascial release techniques and functional movement as well as
completing apprenticeships in Japanese Seitai bodywork.

Peter is accomplished in all aspects of osteopathy and rehabilitation with specialities in upper back, neck and shoulder pain caused by postural office sitting, sports injuries and foot pain including plantar fasciitis.

Peter’s clients include professional sports people including several Premier League footballers, boxers and golf players, musicians from the Royal London Orchestra and students from the English National Ballet. He is the current osteopath of The Jitsu Foundation and has previously
been a faculty member of the London School of Osteopathy.

Outside of clinic, Peter teaches Thai and western boxing to amateurs and semi-professionals, he also avidly practices pilates and occasionally hobbies as a surfing instructor.